Are Bump Stocks Legal in California?

BANNED: Bump stocks are banned in California.

If you live in California or you’re traveling through, this is the page to read before a bump stock crosses the state line. Here’s exactly what California law says, when it took effect, and what’s at stake.

What the law says

California’s ban is codified at Cal. Penal Code § 32900 (“multiburst trigger activator”).

  • Controlling law: Cal. Penal Code § 32900 (“multiburst trigger activator”)
  • Enacted: 1990
  • Penalty: Up to 1 year county jail or state prison term

California banned multiburst trigger activators decades before the federal debate; the statutory definition covers bump stocks. One of the earliest and broadest device bans in the country.

The federal picture

In Garland v. Cargill (decided June 2024), the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the ATF rule that had reclassified bump stocks as machine guns. Since that ruling, bump stocks are legal under federal law. That does not help you in California: the state’s own ban operates independently of federal law and remains fully enforceable.

Frequently asked questions

Can I own a bump stock in California?

No. California law prohibits possession of bump-fire stocks, and violations can be charged as: up to 1 year county jail or state prison term. The federal ruling in Garland v. Cargill does not override state law.

Does the 2024 Supreme Court ruling make bump stocks legal in California?

No. Garland v. Cargill (June 2024) removed the federal machine-gun classification, but states are free to enact their own bans — and California has one. State law controls here.

Can I travel through California with a bump stock in my vehicle?

Possession within the state generally triggers the ban, including in transit. If your route crosses California, the safe move is to leave the device at home. Consult an attorney for your specific situation.

Nearby states

Where that leaves you

Because of the state ban described above, bump-fire stocks cannot be sold or shipped to California, and this page exists for information only.

State device laws have shifted repeatedly since 2017, in both directions. If the law in California changes, our newsletter subscribers are the first to hear about it — the signup form is available on our main site.

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Informational only, not legal advice. Laws change — verify current federal, state, and local law before purchasing. Last reviewed July 2026.